Funding Announcement for Crisis Hotlines in New Brunswick

The provincial and federal governments have jointly pledged $700,000 to bolster gender-based violence crisis lines. This substantial investment, unveiled August 25th in an announcement hosted by Fredericton MP Jennica Atwin, is designed to empower crisis hotlines with enhanced resources and support systems. The primary objective is to address the urgent needs of individuals grappling with gender-based violence and their families, ensuring that help is readily available to residents across the province.

 

Minister Sherry Wilson, responsible for women's equality, stressed the shared commitment to eradicating gender-based violence. She affirmed, "Investing in existing gender-based violence crisis lines is one example of the steps we are taking to create safer communities. We acknowledge New Brunswick has seen an increase in intimate partner violence against women and girls, which is the largest increase among the provinces. We believe that access to crisis line support is an important connection to help these women and girls in need."

 

Crisis hotlines have served as vital lifelines for survivors of gender-based violence, offering critical support services. The demand for these services surged during the COVID-19 pandemic across Canada, and the need for them persists today.

 

Federal Women and Gender Equality and Youth Minister Marci Ien expressed optimism about the impact of this investment. She stated, "Today's announcement brings us one step closer to a safer Canada for everyone. Crisis hotlines are a lifeline for women and families fleeing violence because they serve as a connection to safe resources. This funding will help New Brunswick enhance the existing critical supports and services across the province and help people who are experiencing gender-based violence."

 

The funding commitment is set to support crisis lines until March 31, 2026, underscoring the long-term commitment to combating gender-based violence.

 

This announcement aligns with the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence, a consensus reached in November 2022 by federal, provincial, and territorial ministers responsible for the status of women.

 

Through the Women's Equality Branch, the provincial government has already allocated over $4.7 million to violence prevention initiatives, benefiting more than 30 organizations. This latest investment further reinforces the dedication to creating a safer, more equitable environment for all residents of New Brunswick.